MCLA is a regional leader in the prevention of the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species. Actions with several diverse partner organizations include a broad range of educational activities, lake monitoring, lake treatments, and working with boaters to limit infestations.

Japanese Knotweed: Invades wetland areas, crowding out native vegetation and leaving banks vulnerable to erosion when the knotweed drops its leaves in winter. Root system is strong enough to damage pavement and penetrate building foundations.

Can we do anything about Invasive Species? Yes, we can!

We can prevent the introduction of AIS into lakes that are not infested. Particular care is needed for those lakes that offer public access. We can set priorities for clean-up of wetland plant sites infested with AIS and act now to control the further spread of AIS into critical habitats.

What can you do right now to help stop the spread of AIS?

When visiting our lakes, inspect your equipment, remove any attached plants or animals, drain all water from equipment including live wells and buckets or containers of fish, don’t move live fish or plants away from a waterbody and only buy minnows from a Wisconsin bait dealer. Do not move water, plants or animals from Zebra Mussel infested lakes. Do not travel to different lakes in the same day if possible or disinfect with bleach. Read more on the Wisconsin DNR’s Clean Boats, Clean Waters page.

When visiting our parks and forests, clean your gear before entering and before you leave. Remove seeds and plant material from shoes and clothing. Clean tires and undercarriage of your ATV or vehicle. Do not move plant or animal material from one location to another. For more ways to prevent the spread of invasive species, visit the Wisconsin Council on Forestry website.

What can I do about Emerald Ash Borer?

Read Kiss your Ash Goodbye by Tom Ward, AIS Coordinator, July 2016 for information on what homeowners and land owners can do to prepare for the loss of our Ash population.